Monkey Mia will benefit from $40,000 in Federal Government funding to establish a vision for the area which will include the development of world-class visitor facilities, experiences and tourism infrastructure.
The funding is a partnership between the Federal and State governments as part of the Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure (TDDI) program.
The program provides $43 million over four years to States and Territories for key infrastructure projects that will drive tourism growth. Western Australia received $5.063 million in funding over four years, managed by the State Government through Tourism Western Australia.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions will match the Federal Government funding and manage the project.
The funding will go towards engaging architects to develop concept plans and preliminary designs for the future development of the department's tourism infrastructure in the Monkey Mia area.
As part of the program in 2017-18, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions also received funding for campground upgrades at Yanchep National Park.
These are the final Western Australian projects as part of the TDDI program, which has supported 19 tourism infrastructure initiatives across the State.
Statements attributable to Federal Member for Durack Melissa Price MP:
"I am really pleased to see this joint funding commitment, as Monkey Mia is seen by visiting tourists as a truly unique destination.
"I love Monkey Mia and Shark Bay, and this funding provides the first step on the road to the redevelopment of the area to attract greater tourist numbers, and greater growth for the region.
"Domestic and international visitors to the Coral Coast have increased 22% over the last three years, so we know that there is an appetite to visit the region and view the wonderful scenery up here."
Statements attributable to Western Australian Tourism Minister Paul Papalia:
"It is fantastic to see the program helping to make Western Australia a more attractive place for tourists by providing funding for significant tourism infrastructure across the State.
"Monkey Mia sits within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, which is renowned for its extraordinary natural attributes and, of course, close encounters with bottlenose dolphins.
"Addressing infrastructure needs for Monkey Mia through the program, and the private investment that is already happening in the area, will help attract more tourists into the region and provide employment opportunities.
"Tourism is a key pillar of the State Government's plan to diversify the economy and create jobs. The industry contributed $10.1 billion in visitor spend in 2016-17 and generates around 109,000 jobs."
Statements attributable to Western Australian Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
"We are very fortunate to live in a land full of contrasting landscapes with rich and diverse cultural, biodiversity and heritage values.
"National parks are vitally important for this State, for its economy through the tourism and hospitality industries, and for their world-renowned biodiversity values and beauty.
"Creating more opportunities for people to experience our national parks gives tourists fresh insights into how to protect, promote, and connect with our pristine environment."
Tourism Minister's office - 6552 5600
Environment Minister's office - 6552 5800
